Calculating Electric Force in Bohr Model of Hydrogen Atom

AI Thread Summary
In the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom, the electric force between the proton and electron in the n = 1 state can be calculated using Coulomb's law, F = kq1q2/r^2. The user initially confused energy with force, calculating the energy as -13.6 eV instead of the required force in Newtons. To find the force, the radius for the n = 1 state, known as Bohr's radius, should be used as the distance in the formula. Clarification was provided that energy and force are distinct concepts, leading to the correct approach for the calculation. Understanding the difference between energy and force is crucial for solving such problems accurately.
JDiorio
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Homework Statement


In the Bohr model of a hydrogen atom, what is the magnitude of the electric force exerted between the proton and the electron when the electron is in the n = 1 state?


Homework Equations


E= - 13.6 eV/ n^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I simply plugged in the value for n and got an answer of -13.6 eV. I do not understand why this is incorrect. This is an online homework assignment and asks for the answer in N. Is this where I am making my mistake? Or am I using the wrong formula?
 
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You calculated an energy. The problem asks for a force. Force and energy are different.

What equation have you been given that can be used to calculate the force between two charges?
 
ohh.. so i just use F= kq1q2/r^2

and since it is in the n=1 state, i would use Bohr's radius for r... correct?
 
Yes, that's right.
 
Thank you!..
 

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